No Room in the Inn? You Just Wait!

I promised a continuation of the Kimberly story (see January blog). And so we come to the spring of 2011. Kimberly and Michael had prayerfully decided to seek her entrance into an experimental treatment program for the melanoma cancer that slowly seemed to be winning the battle for her life. But when Kimberly approached the Sarah Cannon cancer facility in Nashville, TN, she was told there were no vacancies in the program.

Just like Joseph and Mary seeking shelter on the night of Jesus' birth, Kimberly was turned away with a 'No Vacancy' sign. But God had a plan, and like many of His plans that appear thwarted before they even begin, this plan would not be denied. Joseph discovered that plan after being thrown in a pit and then in an Egyptian jail. Jonah's submarine adventure ended on dry ground. And Daniel's influence wasn't curtailed by the Lion's Den dinner menu. So is it any surprise that someone dropped out of the Nashville program, and Kimberly took his place?

Now think about getting from South Carolina to Nashville on a monthly basis, usually for at least an overnight stay. Michael and Kimberly are in the 99% of Americans, not the top 1 %. No medical benefits could possibly cover every expense. Michael and Kimberly prayed in faith God would provide and took the step of faith into the darkness—faith that moves mountains.

Thank goodness for frequent flier miles and programs to assist medically-necessary air travel. Hooray for Southwest Airlines having a direct flight. But transportation to the treatment sites in Nashville, meals on the road, and trips back and forth to the airport were out-of-pocket expenses. Kimberly tried first one hotel, then another, seeking the lowest rate. Kimberly was also concerned about Samuel's well-being while Mom was away from home. She was his ride to school and number one homework consultant! Also, the family was still going to Virginia occasionally to meet with Samuel's doctors about his progress with his cleft palate.

Months went by as Kimberly settled into the routine of travel and treatment. On her July trip Michael and Samuel got to come with her, and they witnessed the fireworks show from Riverfront Stadium in Nashville. Then in October Kimberly's mom made the trip with her. That's when I first heard about Kimberly. But more from that in my next post!